Hello,

 

If you are planning a staycation in the next few months, then our guide to Britain’s most delightful self-catering properties will provide welcome inspiration. Plus, in an exclusive partnership with Sawday’s, we are offering readers a three nights for the price of two deal on more than 75 properties.

 

In our Culture pages, comedian Rob Beckett talks about his love of Saturday night TV, the abuse that spurred him on - and how fatherhood sharpened his act, while Alexander McCall Smith opens up about his latest project: a light-hearted take on the bleak world of Scandinavian crime fiction.

 

As well as the usual 7-day TV guide, we have picked the 10 best shows to watch this month, including the welcome returns of Fleabag and Derry Girls.

 

Alacia Elliott doesn’t fit the mould of the stereotypical fitness instructor - no bulging muscles, menacing stance or “push through the pain” mantra. But she’s made of tough stuff - and at 88 is older than most of her clients. Her story is an inspiration.

 

 

Tuesday, according to the Met Office, was the hottest winter day ever in the UK (breaking a record set on Monday), with the mercury hitting 20.8C in Porthmadog in north-west Wales. We look at what extreme weather conditions - both hot and cold - actually mean.  Are they evidence of climate change or are they, simply, a freak occurrence?

 

It’s derby weekend in the Premier League and we have all the news in the build-up to the North London and Merseyside clashes.

 

Elsewhere in Sport, there is an interview with Wales hero Josh Adams on the try that silenced England, while former Everton great Neville Southall reveals  why he wants Liverpool to win the league.

 

Plus, there’s our usual weekend staples including a puzzles pull-out, opinion section (including guest columnist Frank Cottrell-Boyce), days out guide and more.

 

Have a great weekend.

 

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